UTRF plays a key role in state and regional economic development efforts at the intersection of cutting-edge research and real-world solutions. In the past two decades, UTRF has supported biofuel innovation, renewable energy projects, advanced materials and manufacturing, technology entrepreneurship, and many other impactful initiatives that enhance Tennessee’s economy.
Genera: Pioneering Biofuel and Biomass Innovation
In 2007, Tennessee committed $70 million to the University of Tennessee Biofuels Initiative to help create an advanced biofuels economy. As part of this initiative, UTRF formed the for-profit company Genera Energy to build a pilot plant to test the commercial feasibility of using switchgrass as biomass to produce cellulosic fuel.
A few years later, Genera Energy was launched out of UTRF as its own independent organization. In Vonore, it is now growing carbon-negative grass fiber to turn it into compostable packaging and bioproducts. In 2023, Genera broke ground on a $340 million expansion of its Sustainable Biomaterials Campus to scale up production and distribution. This expansion created over 230 additional jobs.
West Tennessee Solar Farm: Leading Renewable Energy in the Southeast
UTRF assists the University of Tennessee in the operation and maintenance of the West Tennessee Solar Farm. Completed in 2012, the 5-megawatt solar farm generates enough energy to power 500 homes annually.
The solar farm and its adjacent SPECTRUM solar museum encourage renewable energy interest and investment while educating the public about the importance of lowering greenhouse gas emissions, installing more renewable energy, and creating high-quality jobs.
UT Research Park: A Hub for Innovation and Collaboration
Cherokee Farm Development Corporation (CFDC), a nonprofit subsidiary of UTRF, operates the UT Research Park (UTRP). Situated along the Tennessee River, just minutes from UT’s flagship campus in Knoxville, the UT Research Park is more than just a picturesque location—it’s a thriving hub of innovation and collaboration. This dynamic site is where cutting-edge companies and ambitious entrepreneurs connect with the brightest minds at UT, forging partnerships that spark business success.
Research at the university has yielded several Innovation Gateways that focus on economic development in advanced materials and manufacturing, artificial intelligence, energy and environment, the future of mobility, and human health and wellness. As the gateway to collaboration with the university, UT Research Park houses several established organizations, including IACMI—The Composites Institute and the UT Medical Center, as well as many startups.
The UT Research Park provides lab space for entrepreneurs and their startups, like Orion Therapeutics, who received the first investment from UTRF’s Accelerate Fund. The park is also home to the Spark Innovation Center, which provides vital support to help young tech-based companies thrive. It operates a two-year incubator program and a 12-week cleantech accelerator, helping entrepreneurs to turn bold ideas into profitable ventures who stay in East Tennessee.
Innovation is at the heart of UTRF’s mission because it drives economic development, creates jobs, and strengthens our region,” said Deborah Crawford, Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, & Economic Development, a UTRF Board member, and Chair of the CFDC Board. “By supporting groundbreaking research and fostering partnerships, we’re not just advancing technologies—we’re empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and setting the stage for a more prosperous future for all Tennesseans.”